At Berkadia, we’re focused on shaping the future of the commercial real estate industry through our internship program. We believe in helping our interns grow by giving them real-world experience, personal development, training, and mentorship. We value our people and are passionate about ensuring that each individual has the tools they need to succeed.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Dan Podoksik, a Risk Management intern in the Ambler office, to learn more about why he chose to Be Berkadia, the insights he’s gained about himself, and the valuable knowledge he’s acquired this summer.
Can you tell us about yourself and describe your internship at Berkadia so far?
I’m entering my senior year at Penn State, where I’m studying Finance and set to graduate in May of 2026. Currently, I’m interning in the Risk Management department at Berkadia. My internship experience has involved researching potential new vendors for internal services, conducting risk interviews, creating quarterly risk reports, and assessing risk within the company.
Why did you choose to Be Berkadia this summer?
I chose Berkadia this summer because I wanted to learn more about the commercial real estate industry and its various components. Additionally, I was drawn to the firm’s creative and collaborative environment.
When interviewing for internships, what made Berkadia stand out?
Berkadia stood out to me because it’s a company that truly values continuous learning and collaboration. I felt that Berkadia plays a unique role in the industry and could provide insights that other companies could not offer.
What has your internship at Berkadia taught you about your future career or yourself?
My internship has taught me that commercial real estate could be a potential career path for me, as I find the work engaging and dynamic. I’ve also discovered that I thrive in collaborative team environments, enjoying the shared success more than working independently.
If you’ve had other internships, how does Berkadia’s internship program differ? Why?
Berkadia’s internship program feels more personal.
How are you applying your coursework in this role? What do you expect to take away from this role?
I’m applying much of my coursework, including the Excel skills I learned while at school. I hope to gain more information about the commercial real estate industry during my time at Berkadia.
What specific skills or knowledge have you gained from this internship?
This experience has provided me with a fundamental understanding of the commercial real estate industry. It has also helped me gain a better understanding of how to work effectively in a team environment and manage my time more efficiently.
What advice would you give someone interested in interning at Berkadia?
My advice would be to relax and focus on learning as much as possible. It’s important to take advantage of opportunities to learn from your team and connect with as many people as possible.
What is the best piece of advice you have received this summer?
The best piece of advice I’ve received this summer would be that your experiences are what you make of them.